October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
Did you know that…
About 1 in 8 women in the United States will develop invasive breast cancer over the course of her lifetime.
Every 2 minutes, one case of breast cancer is diagnosed in the U.S.
Improvements in early detection and treatment led to a 40 percent decline in breast cancer deaths in the United States between 1989 – 2016.
*Facts found at Susan G. Komen.
Screening and Early Detection
Regular screening tests (along with follow-up tests and treatment if diagnosed) reduce your chance of dying from breast cancer.
Different medical providers and organizations have their recommended age to begin testing, but the average age to begin is 40 for women, and only recommended for men if they are at a higher risk.
Breast cancer screening tests
- Clinical breast exam
- Mammography
- Breast MRI
What if you don’t have insurance to cover the screening test?
If you don’t have insurance or your insurance doesn’t cover mammograms, the two resources below may help you find a low-cost or free mammogram (or help with the cost).
- The National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program provides access to breast cancer screening (plus diagnostic testing if results are abnormal, and referrals to treatment if breast cancer is diagnosed) to low-income, uninsured and underinsured women ages 40-64.
- Planned Parenthood offers clinical breast exams and referrals for mammographies, along with any follow-up testing.
What you can do to make a difference
Donate
You can donate to breast cancer charities such as:
Please note that I do not have an affiliation with either of two charities noted above. Research showed that these two are known to spend the charity dollars wisely. BTW, if you’re ever questioning a charity, go to Charity Watch to learn more about the reputation and where the dollars are going.
Pamper Yourself and Give to Breast Cancer at the Same Time
October is also known as Spatober here in Palm Beach County. There are many spas, workout studios, and food establishments that are donation a percentage of their profits from special services to their charity of choice during the month of October.
Think Pink with brands that give back!
So many brands are donating a percentage of sales from particular products to breast cancer research. I’ve broken them down by category.
Beauty Products
C’mon, you know you need a new lipstick or have been meaning to replace your straight iron for the longest time. Why not check some items off your shopping list while supporting an amazing cause.
Clothing
Wear your support with these cool items from well-known brands that want to give back.
Jewelry
Sarah says
Thank you for all this information! Time to go shopping and support the brands that give back!
Dana says
Thank you, Sarah, for your support!
Helen Little says
Love this post – it is so important to get checked regularly. I didn’t know it’s recommended from 40 years!
Dana says
Yep, age 40 and above, and if you are considered a higher risk I believe it can be even earlier.
Kimberly says
It’s so important to get checked! I know quite a few women who had or have breast cancer.
Dana says
It’s much more common than I’d like to think 🙁
Kileen says
This post is such an important subject to me!! My mother was diagnosed with breast cancer and I think it’s so awesome that you are spreading awareness! Mammograms and self check ups are so important!
Kileen
cute & little
Dana says
I agree, Kileen, I hope your mom is doing well xx
Emily says
Such great information in this post! Thanks for sharing!
Rose says
I really appreciate your efforts for the energy and knowledge you used to write such a beautifull piece of content.
Mommy Peach says
Breast Cancer awareness is really important and it’s nice to know that many brands are now supporting awareness of it.
Clair says
Love this post! I have 2 good friends that were diagnosed with Breast Cancer last year…they were very proactive and are in remission right now ❤️
Dana says
I am so glad to hear that your friends are in remission xo
Mackay nuclear medicine says
In its early stages, there are often no symptoms- which is why screening is so important. Screening can detect the early warning signs of colon cancer and save your life. Screening is only recommended for people who are not experiencing symptoms that may indicate colon cancer.